Why Leeds United are set to grow frustrated with Strasbourg in talks for Habib Diarra

Add as preferred source on Google

It has emerged on Monday that Leeds United have tabled a bid north of £20m to sign Strasbourg’s young captain Habib Diarra, who is preparing to face England on Tuesday night.

Leeds seem to be finally making movements in the transfer window for the first time. Udinese defender Jaka Bijol looks set to join Leeds, with Adam Underwood set to intensify talks for Bijol in the coming days.

Now, 21-year-old Diarra has emerged as a target for Leeds. French newspaper L’Equipe first reported that Leeds had made a bid to sign Senegal star Diarra, who will take on Thomas Tuchel’s England tomorrow.

Leeds are not the only club after Diarra, however. Indeed, L’Equipe’s report states that other Premier League sides are in the mix to sign Diarra while Bundesliga clubs also hope to lure him to Germany.

• READ MORE: Hidemasa Morita makes big decision on future as Ao Tanaka’s pal closes in on exit

Why Leeds are going to grow frustrated with Strasbourg in talks

Leeds have made their move and are now awaiting a response from Strasbourg. The exciting Ligue 1 side sparkled under Liam Rosenior but missed out on European football on the final day of the season.

Diarra was a key part of that side, and it comes as little surprise that clubs want him. But as is the way, failure to qualify for Europe means Strasbourg will have to sell, and some players will be tempted to go.

The Express reports, however, that Strasbourg are going to delay giving Leeds a response on their £22m bid for Diarra. Frustratingly for Leeds, the Ligue 1 side are waiting to see if other clubs make a bigger bid.

It will come as a bit of an annoyance to Leeds who are looking to build up a head of steam in the window. Strasbourg’s delay in talks will test Leeds’ resolve in pursuit of Diarra, and whether they will wait for him.

Habib Diarra’s immense Strasbourg numbers at just 21 years old

Diarra is an example of Strasbourg’s well-respected academy. Completely homegrown, even if he was born in Senegal, the midfielder has come through the age groups to play for and captain the senior side.

Despite being just 21, Diarra has now been a well-established part of Strasbourg’s senior side for three seasons. In that time, he has clocked up over 100 appearances for the Ligue 1 side in several roles.

Right midfield, attacking midfield, and central midfield so far for Diarra, who has now outgrown a French side not currently competing in European football. The Premier League beckons for the young leader.